Last week
The Broncos relied on kicker Jason Elam to make another last-second kick, but this time it only got them into overtime, not into the victory column as it did three times previously this season. In the extra session, the Packers won the toss and on the first play in OT, Brett Favre threw an 82-yard bomb to Greg Jennings for the 19-13 win on Monday Night Football. ... Detroit defenders intercepted Brian Griese four times (thrice in the end zone) to down Chicago 16-7 and sweep the teams' season series.
At stake
Even at 5-2, the Lions trail the Packers in the NFC North. Detroit aims for its first 6-2 start since 1999, the last time the Lions made the playoffs. All three of the Broncos' wins this season have been decided by three points or fewer, and the Broncos find themselves just a game off the pace of AFC West leaders Kansas City and San Diego.
Key matchup:
Lions cornerback Dre' Bly vs. his old team. Many thought the Lions secondary would suffer when the team traded Bly to the Broncos in the offseason. But the Lions lead the league with 20 takeaways and collected four interceptions last week against the Bears. Bly, on the other hand, joined Champ Bailey to complete a dangerous CB duo; the two rank first and second among active CBs for most INTs since 1999. Last week, Favre & Co. beat both corners on long TD passes. Kitna and his top receiving corps should put the Broncos' corners to an even bigger test.
Did you know?
Lions rookie WR Calvin Johnson has 15 receptions this season, and 14 have resulted in a first down or a touchdown (93.3 pct.). ... Broncos DE Elvis Dumervil ranks third in the AFC with six sacks.
